Matthews also played with the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers before retiring in 1977 after 8 years in the NFL.
Highlights
- Al Matthews, a former NFL player for the Packers, the Seahawks, and the 49ers, passed away on March 11, 2025, at the age of 77.
- In 1972, Matthews made history as the first Black coach at the University of Texas, paving the way for greater diversity in the university’s athletic department.
- Matthews’ contributions to both professional football and collegiate coaching have left a lasting impact on the sports community, and he is remembered for his pioneering role and achievements.
Alvin Leon “Al” Matthews, a former NFL defensive back and trailblazing coach, passed away on March 11, 2025, at 77.
Matthews is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren. Other than his son Mark Matthews, details about his immediate family members have not been publicly disclosed.
The University of Texas, where Matthews made history as the institution’s first Black coach, announced his passing.
Sad news with the passing of Al Matthews, the first black coach in Texas Athletics history.
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) March 11, 2025
While still playing in the NFL with the Green Bay Packers, Matthews served as an assistant coach on Darrell Royal’s staff in 1972-73, primarily working with the team in the spring. pic.twitter.com/vs07GE9BFU
Matthews Had An Illustrious Collegiate And NFL Career Before Becoming UT’s First Black Coach
Born on November 7, 1947, in Austin, Texas, Matthews attended Stephen F. Austin High School.
He played college football at Texas A&I University (now Texas A&M-Kingsville), where he was part of three Lone Star Conference (LSC) championship teams from 1967 to 1969.
His outstanding performance earned him induction into the school’s Hall of Fame in 1985.
In the 1970 NFL Draft, Matthews was selected in the second round by the Green Bay Packers.
He played as a safety for eight seasons in the NFL, including stints with the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers.
Throughout his career, Matthews recorded 13 interceptions and seven fumble recoveries and scored two defensive touchdowns.
While still active in the NFL, in 1972, Matthews broke new ground by becoming the first Black coach in the history of the University of Texas athletics.
He joined the coaching staff as a part-time assistant, working primarily with wide receivers during bowl games and spring training sessions.
This pioneering role paved the way for greater diversity within the university’s athletic department.
Matthews ended his coaching career at the University of Texas in 1973.
He decided to focus on his professional playing career in the NFL, where he continued to play until 1977.
Al Matthews Will Be Deeply Remembered By The Countless Lives He Helped Improve
Funeral arrangements for Al Matthews have not been publicly announced at this time.
The Matthews family has maintained privacy as they mourn their loss.
Many former players, colleagues, and friends have expressed their grief and condolences on social media.
One family friend wrote,
He [Al] broke the color barrier becoming the 1st black coach in UT history, on DKR’s staff briefly during his NFL career.
Facebook
What I remember most about Al was how well he treated all of us during our years in the Anderson Trojans football program. And, when we all decided to grow up afterwards and kept up with most of us.
Prayers up to the Matthews family.
Matthews’ contributions to both professional football and collegiate coaching have left an indelible mark on the sports community.
His legacy as a player and a trailblazer in coaching diversity will be remembered and honored by those who knew him and by future generations.
Additional Information
- Following his departure from the NFL, Al Matthews worked various auto sales jobs, including at Lexus of Austin and Covert Auto Group.
- Al remained an active member of the Packers till his golden years, often visiting reunions, attending games, and cheering for the team.
- He was also a casual golf enthusiast, occasionally hitting the links with his buddies.
- Former NFL player and University of Texas football coach Al Matthews is not to be confused with Alexander Basil “Al” Matthews (1942-2018), the American actor, singer, and radio personality best known for his role as Gunnery Sergeant Apone in the 1986 film “Aliens”.
